Urine| Hair Follicle | Oral Fluid | Blood | ETG
Hair analysis is increasingly recognized as an effective method for identifying drug and alcohol consumption. Hair captures a comprehensive timeline of drug and alcohol use by embedding biomarkers within the strands of hair as they grow. When collected properly from the scalp, hair can offer a detection window of up to three months for alcohol and drug use. The collection process for hair is straightforward, with minimal risk of tampering, and transportation is uncomplicated.
A sample measuring 1.5 inches with roughly 200 strands (similar in size to a #2 pencil) nearest to the scalp will yield 100mg of hair, which is optimal for both screening and confirmation. For tests requiring EtG, additional panels, or exceeding 10 panels, 150mg is advisable. It is suggested to weigh the sample with a jeweler’s scale. In the absence of scalp hair, an equivalent amount of body hair can be used. When mentioning head hair, it strictly refers to scalp hair, while body hair includes all other types (facial, axillary, etc.).
Process Overview
The laboratory processing of a drug test result consists of the four primary steps: Accessioning, Screening, Extraction, and Confirmation.
Accessioning deals with the initial integration of a sample into a laboratory’s system. This step encompasses confirming the proper sealing and shipping of the sample, allocating a unique LAN (Laboratory Accessioning Number), and performing any additional data entry not covered by an electronic chain of custody.
Screening is a preliminary assessment for drugs of abuse. While Screening is a budget-friendly method for eliminating drug use on the majority of samples, positive findings from Screening must undergo Confirmation for legal acceptance. Samples presumptively positive in Screening necessitate further verification.
If a sample is presumptively positive during the Screening phase, more hair is extracted from the original sample for Extraction. This stage involves extracting drugs from hair at significantly reduced concentrations compared to other methods (e.g., urine or oral fluid), which is why hair drug testing presents a greater challenge.
Any positive finding in Screening is confirmed using GC/MS, GC/MS/MS, or LC/MS/MS. Samples identified as presumptively positive undergo washing as necessary before Confirmation. The entire laboratory process from Accessioning to Confirmation undergoes review under the CAP (College of American Pathologists) Hair criteria and the ISO / IEC 17025 accreditation standards.
Advantages of hair drug testing:
Limitations:
Note: Although frequently termed "hair follicle tests", the analysis is conducted on the hair strand itself and not the follicle beneath the scalp
When comparing hair follicle testing and urine analysis in Sherman, ME, hair testing excels in accuracy. While urine tests have been standard, hair testing goes the extra mile by identifying drugs long after use.
Employers find hair tests superior due to their comprehensive detection capabilities, offering a more reliable and thorough screening than traditional methods.
Hair follicle testing in Sherman, ME spots drug use spanning up to 90 days, offering an extended detection window. This feature uniquely positions hair testing well ahead of other methods in delivering a detailed account of a person’s substance usage history.
Employers gain significant insight into past usage, facilitating informed hiring and monitoring decisions.
The integrity of hair follicle testing in Sherman, ME, renders it a tamper-resistant testing option. Its robustness against adulteration ensures that results remain reliable and credible.
This testing method is nearly impossible to manipulate, offering peace of mind and assured compliance with stringent testing protocols.
Sherman, ME benefits from the convenience of both local and nationwide hair follicle testing centers. Our widespread locations assure straightforward and hassle-free access to essential testing services.
The expansive network of centers simplifies the testing process for employers and individuals, ensuring quick service entry points.
Our hair follicle testing service in Sherman, ME is structured around simplicity and confidentiality, addressing common concerns about privacy and ease of use.
The streamlined process ensures that ordering, taking, and receiving results is both discreet and efficient, making the entire experience user-friendly.
Offering competitive pricing and swift turnarounds, our hair testing services in Sherman, ME deliver incredible value to companies regardless of size.
Our cost-effective approach without compromising on quality ensures that you enjoy excellent service at an optimal price.
Hair follicle testing in Sherman, ME offers unparalleled accuracy and speed in identifying substance use. This method ensures precision, detecting even the most minimal drug traces.
Fast, accurate, and reliable outcomes characterize our hair follicle drug tests, providing invaluable insight for employers and individuals alike.
In Sherman, ME, hair follicle testing helps maintain workplace compliance, offering peace of mind to employers. Ensuring a drug-free environment reduces potential legal issues and enhances overall safety.
Employers benefit from using hair tests as they align with strict regulatory standards and safeguard organizational interests.
